South Korea’s Liberation Day, known as Gwangbokjeol (광복절), is one of the country’s most important national holidays. Celebrated annually on August 15, it marks the day in 1945 when Korea was liberated from 35 years of Japanese colonial rule. It is a day of remembrance, pride, and reflection, as well as a celebration of freedom and independence.
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| South Korea's Literation Day (광복절 08.15) |
1. History of South Korea’s Liberation Day
Japanese Occupation (1910–1945): Korea was under Japanese colonial rule for 35 years, during which the Korean language, culture, and national identity were suppressed. Many Koreans faced forced labor, cultural erasure, and economic exploitation.
Liberation on August 15, 1945: Liberation came at the end of World War II, when Japan surrendered to the Allied Forces following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. For Korea, this meant the long-awaited restoration of sovereignty.
Division of Korea: While August 15 marked liberation, it also set the stage for Korea’s division into North Korea and South Korea, as Soviet and American forces took control of the northern and southern regions respectively.
First Celebration in 1946: The first official Gwangbokjeol was celebrated in 1946, and it was later declared a national holiday under the National Holidays Act in 1949.
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| The first official Gwangbokjeol celebrated in 1946 |
2. Meaning of Gwangbokjeol (광복절)
The name Gwangbokjeol is made up of three Korean words:
- Gwang (광) – light
- Bok (복) – restoration
- Jeol (절) – festival/day
Together, it means “the day the light returned”, symbolizing the revival of independence, culture, and identity after decades of oppression. It’s a time for Koreans to reflect on the struggles of their ancestors and to appreciate the freedoms they enjoy today.
While some refer to August 15 as South Korea’s National Day, others call it Liberation Day or Independence Day. The terms are often used interchangeably, but “Liberation Day” distinguishes it from two other important Korean holidays:
- March 1 Independence Movement Day (Samiljeol, 3/1절) – Commemorates the nationwide protest against Japanese rule in 1919.
- National Foundation Day (Gaecheonjeol, 10/3 개천절) – Marks the legendary founding of the first Korean kingdom by King Dangun in 2333 BC.
3. How South Korea Celebrates Liberation Day?
Liberation Day remains one of the few holidays observed in both South Korea and North Korea.
In South Korea, the day is marked by:
Flag displays – The Taegeukgi (South Korean flag) is proudly hung on buildings and homes. |
| Public parade on liberation day |
4. Practical Information for Visitors
If you are in South Korea during Gwangbokjeol:
- Expect national flags everywhere and vibrant public celebrations.
- Many museums and historic sites offer free entry on this day.
- Public transportation may operate on a holiday schedule.
- It’s an excellent opportunity to visit Seodaemun Prison History Hall, Independence Hall of Korea, or the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History.